Pokemon Sword and Shield Announced for Nintendo Switch

Titled both Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield, the eighth generation Pokemon games are coming to the Nintendo Switch sometime later in 2019. Featured above, you can view the announcement trailer for the games.

The games feature a trio of new starters:

(Editor’s Note: From left to right)

Grookey – (Grass-type) The Chimp Pokémon! This mischievous Pokémon is full of boundless curiosity.

Sobble – (Water-type) The Water Lizard Pokémon! Sobble is a bit timid, shooting out attacks as it hides itself in the water.

The game is naturally set in a new region as well: Galar. Nintendo describes Galar as a land “filled with idyllic countryside” and “contemporary cities,” as well as “vast plains and snow-covered mountains.” There’s also clearly some European-inspired architecture.

Here’s some more screenshots:

Lastly, here’s the official blurb on the games:

During a Pokémon Direct presentation today, Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of The Pokémon Company, announced Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, the newest additions to the main series of Pokémon role-playing video games. Developed by GAME FREAK inc., Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will be launching late 2019 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch™ system.

The Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games take place in the Galar region. Galar is an expansive region with diverse environments— an idyllic countryside, contemporary cities, thick forest, and craggy, snow-covered mountains. The people and the Pokémon who live there work together closely to develop the industries in the region. Fans will have the opportunity to visit various Gyms in the Galar region in their quest to become Champion. They will not be alone, since the newly discovered Pokémon they choose to be their first partner will be by their side.

“Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield are the latest exciting adventures in the Pokémon video game journey that began twenty-three years ago on this day,” said Mr. Ishihara. “Since then, Trainers around the world have discovered new Pokémon, engaged in epic battles, and made countless memories along the way. We look forward to continuing this journey by exploring a stunning new region in the Pokémon universe when the games launch later this year on Nintendo Switch.”

The adventure begins in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield when players choose one of three new Pokémon—Grookey, Scorbunny, or Sobble. Grookey, a Grass-type Chimp Pokémon, is mischievous and full of boundless curiosity. Bursting with energy, Scorbunny, a Fire-type Rabbit Pokémon, is always running about. The stealthy Sobble, a Water-type Water Lizard Pokémon, shoots out attacks as it hides itself in water.